St. Thomas More Catholic Parish Newsletter October 2018 more INFORMED
A Grandfather’s Wisdom sharing the faith
Faithful Stewards giving of our time, talent and treasure
More Than You Realize calling us each to discipleship
Growing Closer to Christ and Each Other adventures in youth ministry
Safeguarding Families Ministry of the Sick Connecting Faith the importance of the bringing hope and Our Lord and Science 2018 midterm elections to those in need students explore God’s creation info content
St. Thomas More Catholic Parish 8035 South Quebec Street Centennial, CO 80112 303.770.1155 stthomasmore.org editor: Carly McGillick contributing editors: Therese Beaudette Deacon Bob Cropp 20 24 Jerry Nix photographers: 3 The Path of the Church 17 The Gospel of Life By Msgr. Tom Fryar By Catholic Charities & STM Staff Ian Lee Dave Rich 5 A Grandfather’s 18 Our New Marian Statue director of communications: Wisdom By James Hilger Irene Lindemer By Deacon Steve Stemper pastor: 19 Exhibit of Love and Msgr. Thomas Fryar 8 Continuing Our Legacy Mercy parochial vicars: 9 God’s Plan For Our 20 A Tremendous Blessing Rev. John Ludanha Rev. Rohan Miranda, O.C.D. Lives Rev. Ivan Monteiro, O.C.D. 21 The Fun and Festive 10 Safeguarding Families Mane Event deacons: By Barb Monark By STM Parish & School Staff Deacon George Brown Deacon Bob Cropp Deacon Tim Kenny 11 Faithful Citizenship 22 Connecting Faith and Deacon George Morin By the U.S. Council of Bishops Science Deacon Alan Rastrelli, M.D. By STM School’s Faculty & Staff Deacon Steve Stemper Deacon Tim Walsh (retired) 12 Sharing Joy and A Smile 24 Growing Closer to Christ 13 Ministry of the Sick and Each Other MORE By Hannah Smith INFORMED By Nancy Mamber Published by the St. Thomas More Office 26 Faith, Service, Friendship of Communications six times a year. 14 More Than You Realize Its mission is three-fold: to proclaim By Denver Catholic Staff By Molly Grantz the Gospel, to build up community by keeping them informed, and to call the community to worship and service. 16 Prayer and Peaceful 27 Get to Know Our Copyright 2018, St. Thomas More Parish Involvement New Youth Minister By Margarita Nelson Q & A with Chloe Elder deadline October 15 for the December issue and December 15 for the February issue. Articles may be edited for clarity and space.
2 More Informed our pastor’s message
The Path of the Church literature tracing our history
Have you read any good books lately? I have. I would like Archbishop Aquila and Bishop Rodríguez gave this as to make some recommendations to you. a present to the priests last December, and I would recommend it to you, especially if you find yourself You know how when we find a good restaurant, see a living a life that is challenged by a world that doesn’t good movie or read a good book, we never hesitate to seem to let you rest in the moment or be at peace in share the good news with those we either know well and your walk with God. we care for them enough to let them in on it, or know casually as at a social gathering and we are just making Another is Bearing False Witness by Rodney Stark. It is conversation. The question you have probably heard subtitled Debunking Centuries of Anti-Catholic History. regarding this trait is: “Why are we so willing to share Stark is a professor of social sciences at Baylor University such day-to-day events, but hesitate to tell others about and makes a point of stating that he is not, nor has he such monumental things as our faith, our church or ever been, a Catholic. Nonetheless, in looking at the God’s love for us?” historical roots of what are some commonly understood perceptions and opinions regarding the Catholic Church Anyhow, several books that I have read in the last few and history, he felt the need to shed light on the truth of months are worth passing on to you. the matter.
The first is A Mind At Peace by Christopher O. Blum He writes about such areas as the opinion that the and Joshua P. Hochschild. It is subtitled Reclaiming an Church was behind fostering the Dark Ages and only Ordered Soul in the Age of Distraction. It challenges one when the secular spirit of the Enlightenment came did to see what they are doing in the present-day cultural we break free of that on the world stage. He debunks setting to assure that their mind, senses and spirit are the commonly-held myth that the Crusades were strictly not compromised by the many things that can rob us of a bloody example of the Church’s oppressive attempts the peace that our good God has made us for and wants to impose itself on innocent members of other faiths us to live. in a desire for riches and power. And he debunks even the more recent portrayal of Pope Pius XII as a pawn in It is a fine opportunity to see the wisdom of the ages Hitler’s circle of influence. brought to bear on everything from how we perceive and sense the world around us to what we understand He takes on about ten popular misconceptions and of wisdom, how we make decisions and humble living. brings forth the truth behind the Church’s actions and teachings. I knew many of the things he writes about, but not all. And I found his study highly engrossing and quite readable. I recommend it to you if you ever have History often friends or family that put forth disparaging remarks about the Church throughout history, or even if you just shows the are a fan of knowing the roots of what brought us to hand of God where we are today. Finally, a third book that I highly recommend is Life and at work Love by Terry Polakovic. It is subtitled Opening Your Heart To God’s Design. It takes one on a historical tour in ways that are of the understanding of what the Church has taught about life, love, sex, marriage and the role God gives us amazing in hindsight. to carry out the command given in the Garden of Eden “ October 2018 3 to: “be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it.” encourage you to come and take time to experience it. (Gen. 1:28) Polakovic gives us great evidence by building Bring family, friends and neighbors who you want to bless the understanding of these issues through the writings of with an opportunity to learn more about someone the the popes, from Pope Leo XIII to Pope Francis, regarding world recognized as a living saint during her life. She is marriage and its true purpose. The book discusses why also one of three named saints that have actually been in we are currently challenged in proclaiming a message the Colorado and the city of Denver – the other two of course world might say is out of touch with reality, and all the being St. Frances Xavier Cabrini and St. John Paul II. while basing the world’s philosophy on relatively recent attitudes and understandings. She shows how things like These reflections speak about the importance of knowing eugenics and the work of individuals like Margaret Sanger not only who and what we are, but where the journey of continue to have a profound effect in our world and our faith has been that leads to today in our lives and world. lives. And how the Church teaches in wonderful and inspiring ways the call of our God to live in ways that truly Take time this month and in this fall season to reflect on reflects His Love. your own journey of faith. Think about the people that your loving God has placed in your life story throughout After giving a brief historical understanding of the the years to show you His presence and care. Wonder at background and reason for their addressing the issues, the connections of time, people, and situations that have both in the context of the Church and wider society, led you to where you are now in your awareness of God she examines some of the writings of popes from the present to you, and calling forth from you a response in last three centuries. We are presented with a consistent your life that serves His will of building up His Kingdom, in expression of the beauty of what God calls us to in this world and the next. our own lives and in our relationships with others. It portrays an understanding of marriage that sees it as a And hear again the words of our Lord Jesus, found at the gift that unfortunately is seriously misunderstood or even end of the Gospel of Matthew, “And behold, I am with disbelieved by people today, even at times within the you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt 28:20) u Church. – Msgr. Tom I recommend this book if you want a read that will remind you of the beauty of what God has done and what is still ours to claim. And if the name of the author sounds familiar, it should. Terry is a member of St. Thomas More Parish. But even if she weren’t, I would highly recommend you taking time with this book for your own spiritual renewal and enrichment.
All three of these books show a historical factor in looking at where we are now and how we got here. As you might guess, I enjoy history and knowing the truth about our roots and the path that has brought about that which is now lived or professed. History often shows the hand of God at work in ways that are amazing in hindsight.
Another piece of history that I will recommend to one and all is a special opportunity we have this October 19–21 here at St. Thomas More. We are blessed to be an exhibit site for an historical perspective of the life of a woman named Agnes Bojaxhiu, born August 26, 1910, in Macedonia. Shortly after joining a religious community based in Ireland after she turned 18, she was sent to teach in a Catholic school in Calcutta. Eventually leaving that community and forming a new one, under the approval of Pope Pius XII in 1952, the woman we now know as St. Teresa of Calcutta, Mother Teresa began the Missionaries of Charity.
By the generosity of the Sisters in her community who Monsignor Tom shared this fun photo of his recent PrayerOne work here in the Denver area, we are fortunate to have helicopter flight! He, along with the four others pictured, an extensive display of her life and history. It will be were in the air over metro Denver for around 20 minutes, set up in McCallin Hall for those three days and I highly participating in a ministry that takes pastors and other church- related individuals up to pray over the city and its people. 4 More Informed A Grandfather’s Wisdom a week of sharing the faith
By Deacon Steve Stemper Tuesday – Our Soul is Eternal
On Tuesday: We have a soul that lives forever. As a result, Editor’s Note: The following is Deacon Steve we shouldn’t live as if the pleasures of this world are Stemper’s homily from Sunday, July 22, 2018, the the most important thing. No, following the teachings of Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. (The readings Jesus, our God, is the most important thing. were: Jeremiah 23:1–6, Psalm 23, Ephesians 2:13–18 and Mark 6:30–34.) We are publishing this homily 2 Corinthians 5:10 says, “For we must all appear before because many parishioners have asked for it in print. the judgment seat of Christ so that each one may receive recompense according to what he did in the body, whether good or evil.” Tuesday: our souls will live forever “He began to teach them and our behavior will impact that soul. many things,” (Mark 6:34) and in our psalm Wednesday – God is Love we heard that “the Lord is my shepherd… He On Wednesday: God is Love. That’s pretty simple. In guides us in right paths.” 1 John 4:8, we hear those exact words, “God is Love,” and He wants a personal relationship with us. In our second I was thinking, if I only reading from Ephesians 2, we heard, “Jesus came and had a week to live and I preached peace to those who were far off, and peace to wanted to do that for my those who were near, for through Him, we have access in grandson, Landon – one Spirit to the Father.” God exists, God is love and He I wanted to guide him in wants a relationship with us. Wednesday: God loves us right paths, teach him and wants us to know Him. things – what would be the most important Thursday – Suffering Is Not the Worst; Sin Is things that I would want to teach him? And I came up with this approach. On Thursday, I would teach: Suffering isn’t the worst thing in the world; sin is. In Romans 8:18, we read, “I consider Monday – Jesus is God that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.” On Monday, I would focus on teaching him that Jesus is God, and part of the Holy Trinity. The book The Case for I’d say, “Landon, remember Tuesday we talked about Jesus by Brant Pitre (that I would encourage him to read) our souls living forever?” We get to live forever, because makes it clear that the reason Jesus was crucified was Jesus died for us. He showed us that He didn’t come because the Jewish authorities took dramatic exception to avoid suffering, that it wasn’t the worst thing in the to Jesus claiming to be Divine. They accused Him of world. No, in fact, in Romans 6:23 we read, “For the blasphemy for his claim to be equal to God. We believe wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life He is our Lord. in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Jesus didn’t come to eliminate suffering in this world, no, the most important deed I don’t know if you have heard “The Lord, Liar, Lunatic” example before, but if not: Many people will say that Jesus was not God but a “great teacher.” Yet, if He was a “great teacher” only and He wasn’t our Lord, then He’s Following the either a liar or a lunatic: If He claims to be God, and He knew He wasn’t, He’s a liar. If He claimed to be God and teachings of He thought He was, but He wasn’t, He’s a lunatic. And “great teachers” aren’t liars or lunatics. So, as He claimed Jesus, our God, to be God and was, our only response can be – He is Lord. is the most important I believe 100% that Jesus is Lord, and that would be Monday. thing. “ October 2018 5 in the history of the world was to redeem our sins. Thursday: sin is the worst thing in the world, not Never let an suffering. individual Friday – Listen To The Church, Not The World person, even On Friday: I would say the Church is full of saints and one representing the sinners, and despite the sinners, listen to it and be obedient to the Church, even if the world disagrees with Church, separate you it, and the world will disagree with it. from the teachings of In our first reading from Jeremiah 23, we heard, “Woe to the shepherds who mislead and scatter the flock.” Jesus the Church or from warned us in Matthew 7:15 that there would be wolves our Lord Jesus Christ. in sheep’s clothing. So, if individual Church people have “ disappointed you, or even hurt you, and whether that’s been by me or any member of the Church, on behalf of from 1986 to 1996, but 50 years ago, was just a young all of us, I apologize to you and ask for your forgiveness. priest in Baltimore. But never let an individual person, even one He said: “I came across an idea which was elliptical, representing the Church, separate you from the the gift of love should be allowed to be fruitful, the teachings of the Church or from our Lord Jesus Christ. unitive and procreative meanings of marriage cannot be separated. Consequently, to deprive a conjugal Because Jesus actually told us in John 16, “I tell you the act deliberately of its fertility is intrinsically wrong. To truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the encourage or approve such an abuse would lead to the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send eclipse of fatherhood, and to disrespect for women. Since Him to you. And when He comes, the Spirit of Truth, then, Pope John Paul II has given us the complementary He will guide you to all truth.” We are blessed to have and superlative insight into the nuptial meaning of the that Spirit of Truth guiding the Catholic Church, and human body. Some time later, the Papal Commission sent the Catholic Church primarily seeks God’s truths, not its recommendations to the Pope. The majority advised popularity. that the Church’s teaching on contraception be changed. As we know, the Pope decided otherwise.” One of the more dramatic examples of that occurred 50 years ago this week when Humanae Vitae, The Gospel of That set the scene for a tragic drama in the life of Life, was issued. I want to briefly talk about that through Cardinal Stafford. Days later, on August 4, 1968, the the words of Cardinal Stafford, who was our archbishop priests of that Archdiocese in Baltimore called together all the priests, and they had drafted a “Statement of Dissent” that they were going to publish in The Baltimore Sun, one of the daily newspapers. The Statement of Dissent was read aloud to all the priests and the ones leading the group started asking for a vote, yes or no. Everyone else was agreeing to the Statement of Dissent. As the last called upon, Cardinal Stafford felt isolated. He said: “The basement we were in felt suffocating, but I could not sign it, I could not approve.”
In Philippians 2, we hear how Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered. We are called to be obedient to the Church. Cardinal Stafford stuck with the Church, despite the suffering inflicted on him by his fellow clergy.
Over 25 years ago, my wife and I were using “the pill” as contraception. But then Cathy went through our RCIA program, and we got to the point of asking whether we were going to follow our conscience or the conscience of the Church. We knew our own consciences were influenced by our own selfish desires, and so we said, in Cardinal J. Francis Stafford celebrated his 60th anniversary as truth we have to follow the teachings of the Church and priest in December 2017 (Photo by Anya Semenoff, Denver Catholic) started using Natural Family Planning (NFP). Sacrifice was 6 More Informed certainly involved in that, but living sacrificially is good; remember the day before? Suffering isn’t the worst thing; sin is. So, be obedient to the Church, even if sacrifice is involved, because God is never outdone in generosity.
Saturday – Love Mary
On Saturday, I would teach about the Blessed Virgin Mary. What a great role she played in our salvation. God’s Word tells us in Luke 1 regarding Mary, “All generations will call me blessed.” All generations.
And in John 2, we get the story of Jesus’ first miracle at the Wedding at Cana. The power of Mary’s intercession secures that miracle, and throughout the centuries we know that she works to bring us closer to her Son, Jesus.
The Holy Spirit, just like at the Nativity, always makes use of Mary to give birth to Christ, so to speak, and the more the Holy Spirit finds a soul united to Mary, the more active and mighty the Holy Spirit becomes in producing Jesus Christ in that soul, and that soul in Jesus Christ.
So I would teach Landon to pray the Hail Mary, and one of my favorite daily prayers, “Mary, please give us the graces imagine that for most of us, we would feel that we had we need, even those we fail to ask for.” just received generously, so it wouldn’t be too much to give one back. But I would do one more thing before Saturday concluded, and that is, I would give him 168 free Dairy Queen And then I would talk about how God gives us 168 hours coupons, with no strings attached. Then I’d ask for, but each week, and He asks us to give one back, the one that make it clear that he doesn’t have to, give one back. And you’re spending here right now, so thank you for doing think, would you be willing to give one of the 168 back? I that. He asks us to spend that hour regardless of whether we enjoy the homily, love the music, like the greeters, whether we’re feeling good or whether it’s convenient.
Saturday: love the Blessed Virgin Mary and be faithful to the commandment to keep holy the Sabbath by going to Church every Sunday.
Sunday – Go To Mass
On Sunday, we would go to church and spend that hour with God, because the most important thing in life, I would say, is not how important or successful or beautiful or smart or athletic or anything else we become. The most important thing in life is God.
C.S. Lewis said: “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. Christianity cannot be moderately important.” I would hope that he would understand, that it is not moderately important, it’s of infinite importance.
And then Landon and I would kneel in church, and we would thank God. Thank God for creating us for eternity, thank Him for His love, thank Him for redeeming us of our sins, thank Him for His church, thank Him for the Blessed Virgin Mary, and thank Him for the freedom to Above & above-right: Deacon Steve with his grandson Landon worship Him. u October 2018 7 Continuing Our Legacy generously sharing God’s gifts
Your generosity in sharing God’s gifts changes lives, treasure in the spirit of trust in God rather than in a spirit touches hearts and brings joy! of fear and insecurity.
Let us continue our legacy as St. Thomas More Giving must come from the heart with a deep sense of parishioners, responding to our need to give, to share gratitude. Talents include a wide range of innate abilities. God’s abundance by feeding the hungry, clothing those Discerning our talents and using them to serve God and in need, consoling those in mourning and responding those around us in need is living out our baptismal call to to our calling to share the Good News with others, both follow Jesus. near and far. In his book Everyday Stewardship Inspiration, Tracy Earl God loves us and fills our lives with blessings of every Welliver writes, “We share our time, talent & treasure to kind, trusting that we will, in loving response, share them bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ, so with others with generosity and kindness. that others may come to follow Him as well.”
We are all called to be disciples and stewards. Christian Time is one of the most precious gifts we have. The use disciples are people who respond to Christ’s call, follow of our time to keep our minds and bodies healthy and Jesus and shape their lives in imitation of Christ’s. nurture relationships and our spirituality is key when Christian stewards are people who receive God’s gifts serving the needs of others. Sharing time with others can gratefully, cherishing and tending them in a responsible nourish us all. and accountable manner, sharing them in justice and love with others, and returning them with increase to We give of our treasure with sincere gratitude, trusting the Lord. (Source: Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response) that God can never be out done in generosity. By supporting our parish, our archdiocese and special When we recognize that everything in life is a gift from charities dear to our hearts, we are good stewards of God, we are empowered to give of our time, talent and God’s gifts to us.
For inspiration for faithful stewardship of treasure, we can look to the Bible: “Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind.” (Hebrews 13:16)
A simplified way for you to support our amazing parish and our many ministries is the use of eGiving (also known as online giving). Faith Direct was selected to offer this safe and secure service for our parishioners which provides you the convenience of making your parish offerings in much the same way as you may already use it to make your mortgage, car or other payments.
The Faith Direct program not only gives you a convenient, consistent way to support our parish, but also saves the parish printing costs, postage and mailing expenses. To enroll, simply visit FaithDirect.net and enter our parish code CO739. You will then create a Faith Direct account if you haven’t created one previously.
Thank you for your financial and prayerful support of our parish family! Your kindness and generosity helps the parish and our many ministries spread the Good News and the love of Jesus throughout our community. u 8 More Informed God’s Plan For Our Lives faithful stewardship of vocations
God chooses every one of us to work with Him in a Another aspect of our parish’s commitment to being good unique way to share the Gospel and work for the coming stewards of vocations is our Traveling Chalice for Vocations. of His kingdom. He has created each of our hearts If you would like to take home the chalice for a week to perfectly to follow His plan for our lives, the truest way pray for our priests and for vocations, please contact Karen to find happiness and peace. God calls each of us to a Smoody at 720.482.3594 or [email protected]. particular vocation. Perhaps this is the married life, May God richly bless you with every good gift as you pray chaste single life, consecrated life or ordained ministries. for all our priests and for priestly vocations.
Over the years, many vocations to the priesthood and Our parish is dedicated to celebrating and supporting all religious life have been fostered through the efforts vocations, including special intentions for an increase in of the parishioners of St. Thomas More. Our parish is vocations to the priesthood and religious life. u committed to being faithful stewards of vocations.
“Pray for all men and women who are considering and/ or responding to a religious vocation call in their lives,” our pastor Monsignor Tom encourages us.
At all Masses on Saturday & Sunday, November 3 & 4, we will hear from a seminarian from the Archdiocese of Denver who will be visiting us. We will also have the opportunity to contribute to a second collection at all Masses that weekend for the Archdiocese Seminary Appeal as mandated by our archdiocese. We thank you for your generosity to support our future priests and religious. Watch the bulletin for details.
Then, our annual Called By Name initiative will be the following weekend, November 10 & 11. Each of us will have the important opportunity to nominate an individual who may have a possible vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Prayerfully consider a person you would like to nominate! Cards will be available in the church pews to make your nomination at all weekend Masses. A Prayer For Vocations
Our Called By Name program for stewardship of Good and gracious God, vocations has been very successful over the years. You call each person by name Quite a few of the individuals nominated have gone on and invite them to follow you. to discern and fulfill their vocations to the priesthood and religious life. May each person hear and respond to the call they have received. The timing of these special stewardship of vocations We pray for all discerning marriage, efforts also will coordinate nicely with National Vocation the chaste single life, consecrated life Awareness Week (NVAW), which is the first full week or ordained ministries, of November each year. NVAW is an annual week-long that your Holy Spirit would guide, celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States. inspire and strengthen them. Since NVAW’s beginning in 1976, it is dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and May your Church and the world consecrated life through prayer and education, and be enriched by the “yes” of your children. to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations. Amen.
October 2018 9 Safeguarding Families importance of the 2018 midterm election
By Barb Monark often are made in alignment with the personal and STM Parishioner & Colorado Family Action political philosophies of the office holder.
The First Amendment of our Constitution states: Be personally involved in selecting the candidates that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment best (not perfectly) share your Catholic beliefs. Stay of religion or prohibiting the practice thereof…” The connected and involved in the public square beyond United States of America is the only nation throughout November 6. history to be founded on such a noble principle. Personal beliefs are to be respected, professions of faith accepted Use your influence to encourage others to vote. Close and displays of conduct allowed to be driven by the tenets the 40% gap of Christian voters who chose to sit out of one’s faith. Have you seen any of this being challenged the 2016 cycle (liftthevote.org/election-2016-christians- in recent times? made-difference).
We have a unique opportunity and responsibility to Above all, pray, pray, pray that we may be found worthy weigh in on what is happening in our local communities, of God’s blessing over our country and state, that we will state and nation. Casting your vote in the 2018 midterm speak boldly to others of the need to participate in all elections on or before Tuesday, November 6 will make arenas that comprise our culture. a difference in Colorado. All active, eligible voters will receive their ballots in the mail beginning Monday, Your family’s future and religious freedom are core October 15. reasons to fulfill your civic duty by voting in the mid-term elections. u Not sure your registration is up-to-date? From the comfort of your home, visit the website: govotecolorado.com to connect with the Secretary of State’s website, where you may register or update your voter information.
There are many important offices involved in the Colorado midterm elections: congressional, state and county races as well as governor. As the highest office in state government, the next governor will have the power and authority to nominate judges, appoint individuals to serve on over 300 boards and commissions (that interpret and enforce our laws) and preside over the redistricting of our political map. As we have historically seen, these decisions
Voting is grounded in Biblical truth:
“You should also look among all the people for able and God-fearing men, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain, and set them over the people as commanders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. Let these render decisions for the people in all routine cases.” (Exodus 18:21–22)
“Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” (Isaiah 1:17) In September, nationally renowned speaker Debbie Chaves “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a of Colorado Family Action presented at St. Thomas More reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34) on the topic, “Embracing the Election Process to Safeguard Families.” Visit coloradoaction.org for helpful information. 10 More Informed Faithful Citizenship voting your conscience
By the U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
As Catholics, we are part of a community with profound teachings that help us consider challenges in public life, ELECTION DAY contribute to greater justice and peace for all people, and evaluate policy positions, party platforms and candidates’ is Tuesday, November 6! promises and actions in light of the Gospel in order to help build a better world. Don’t forget to vote! All active, eligible voters will receive their ballots in the mail beginning Monday, The Church’s obligation to participate in shaping the moral October 15. If you are voting via mail-in ballot, be character of society is a requirement of our faith, a part sure to mail it in time to arrive by Election Day or of the mission given to us by Jesus Christ. As people of deliver your ballot to the appropriate location. both faith and reason, Catholics are called to bring truth to political life and to practice Christ’s commandment to love To register to vote or find out if you are already one another. (John 13:34) registered, visit the website: govotecolorado.com.
The U.S. Constitution protects the right of individual Let your voice be heard in the direction of our believers and religious bodies to proclaim and live out government and its actions on important issues. their faith without government interference, favoritism or discrimination. Civil law should recognize and protect the Church’s right and responsibility to participate in society without abandoning its moral convictions.
Our nation’s tradition of pluralism is enhanced, not threatened, when religious groups and people of faith bring their convictions into public life. The Catholic community brings to political dialogue a consistent moral framework and broad experience serving those in need. In the Catholic tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation. As Catholics, we should be guided by our moral convictions, and our faithful citizenship is an ongoing responsibility.
Fundamental principals of Catholic social teaching include the dignity of the human person, the common good, subsidiarity and solidarity. This ethic does not treat all issues as morally equivalent nor does it reduce Catholic teaching to one or two issues. It anchors the Catholic commitment to defend human life and other human rights, from conception until natural death, in the fundamental obligation to respect the dignity of every human being as a child of God. Catholic voters should use Catholic teachings In light of Catholic teaching, the bishops repeat their call to examine candidates’ positions and ballot measures. for a renewed politics that focuses on moral principles, the promotion of human life and dignity, and the pursuit The Church equips members to address political questions of the common good. Political participation in this spirit by helping them develop well-formed consciences. reflects not only the social teaching of our Church but Catholics are urged to listen carefully to the Church’s the best traditions of our nation. u teachings and apply them to specific proposals and situations. The Church encourages Catholics to develop the For more information, read Forming Consciences for virtue of prudence, which enables us “to discern our true Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from good in every circumstance and to choose the right means the Catholic Bishops of the United States, at usccb.org/ of achieving it.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1806) issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/index.cfm. October 2018 11 Sharing Joy & A Smile good stewards of our time & talent
In St. Paul’s letter to the Romans, he reminds us of how God has given each of us gifts and talents to use to serve Him and other people: “Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us exercise them.” (Romans 12:6) God gives us each charisms, or spiritual gifts. Different individuals are skilled in leadership, teaching youth or adults, cooking, speaking, comforting those in need, writing, caring for children, greeting, administrative work or a variety of other areas.
In the weeks leading up to Stewardship of Time & Talent Weekend, St. Thomas More parishioners prayerfully contemplated the gifts, talents, skills and abilities God has generously given to each one. Then on that weekend, August 25 & 26, parishioners discovered exciting opportunities to use their own unique talents to bring joy to others. Parish publications, a video, cards in the pews and the Time & Talent Fair in the beautifully renovated McCallin Hall after all weekend Masses provided wonderful inspiration for parishioners to get involved.
To further explore and learn about our parish’s various ministries, read our weekly bulletin and our new parish guidebook, mailed to all registered parishioners in July. Explore the ministry directory on our website at stthomasmore.org (under “Get Involved” in the menu bar, click “Ministries and Programs”). Find a couple of ministries that interest you and fit your talents. Then, contact the representatives to begin your journey. u
Photography by Ian Lee
12 More Informed Ministry of the Sick bringing hope and Our Lord to those in need
By Nancy Mamber To become an EMHC, you will need to attend a couple STM Parishioner hours of training. Classes are offered multiple times a year. These are scheduled on convenient days and times, with “… For I was sick and you visited me ...” (Matthew 25:36) some during the day and some in the evening. Watch the weekly bulletin for the upcoming dates and times. We need your help! We have parishioners who are sick, recovering from surgery, undergoing chemotherapy, If you are currently an EMHC at St. Thomas More Parish, taking care of a loved one or just can’t make it to Mass please consider joining the Ministry of the Sick, bringing anymore. They want us to come bring them the Eucharist Our Lord to those who are unable to attend Mass, as they and pray with them. It’s so meaningful to them, and they reside in a nearby nursing home or assisted living facility are so appreciative. This may be the only contact they can or are in the hospital. There are many openings in this have now with their beloved church, St. Thomas More. special ministry. Please call 303.221.9181 for more details.
Please prayerfully consider joining the Ministry of the Sick I ask you to pray and reflect on this. Is Our Lord asking as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC). you? The goal of the ministry is to take the Eucharist to them once a week, stopping by on your way home from Mass, Remember, they want to receive Our Lord. And Our Lord dedicating a short time during the week on a day and wants to go – He just needs our help to get there – He just time that is convenient to you. needs a ride! u
We are a great Church, and we have great needs. EMHCs are needed at Mass, in the hospital, in the nursing home For questions or additional information, please contact and for those who are homebound. These are all different Phil & Irene Lindemer at [email protected] or teams and are each very important. 303.221.9181.
“It’s very special to help people in need by praying with them and giving them Holy Communion. It brings hope and puts smiles on people’s faces,” said STM parishioner Michael Krizmanic, an EMHC in the Ministry of the Sick. Mandatory Remandation “It also helps me personally to grow closer to God.” For All Current EMHCs
This fall is the annual mandation renewal for all Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion required by the Archdiocese of Denver. St. Thomas More is offering three Mandation Workshops, which will include a presentation on “Pope Francis on the Eucharist” by John Miller, Outreach Coordinator for CFCS (Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services).
EMHCs MUST attend one mandatory Mandation Workshop to continue to serve as an EMHC. Sessions will be held at St. Thomas More in the church on the following days:
Sunday, October 7 from 2:00–4:30pm Wednesday, October 24 from 9:30–11:00am Wednesday, November 7 from 7:00–9:30pm
Questions? Contact Irene Lindemer at 303.221.9181 or [email protected].
October 2018 13 More Than You Realize calling each of us to discipleship
By Denver Catholic Staff members of their community for whom they wished to attend the conference, which revolved around the idea of “Be not afraid!” discipleship. Through engaging videos and talks given by speakers such as Chris Stefanick, Luis Soto and Dr. Edward This was the rallying cry at the August 11 “More Than You Sri, attendees were invited to join a new movement of Realize” conference, echoing the very same call St. John discipleship within the archdiocese, echoing the one Paul II gave exactly 25 years ago when he visited Denver sparked 25 years ago at World Youth Day. for World Youth Day in 1993. “[I] had a great rejuvenating time at the More Than You Over 5,000 faithful from across the Archdiocese of Realize Conference,” said Alex Martinez, a parishioner Denver filled the seats of the Budweiser Events Center at St. Pius X Parish. “I am excited to see the MTYR in Loveland at what was the largest Catholic gathering movement take shape.” in Colorado since WYD ’93. The all-day conference was presented in both English and Spanish tracks, featured Brenda Garrett, a parishioner of the Cathedral Basilica a dynamic lineup of renowned Catholic speakers and of the Immaculate Conception, said, “It was an amazing culminated in a powerful commissioning Mass. event, so blessed my pastor Father Ron from the Cathedral Basilica sent me. I am so proud to be part of The name More Than You Realize this movement.” and consequently, the logo resembling an eyechart (pictured The key to evangelization at right), stems from the idea that almost everything may appear a Cardinal J. Francis Stafford spoke before Mass began certain way at surface level, but about the impact of World Youth Day 1993 and the upon closer inspection, it can be challenges the Church faces today. more than one realizes and seen in a different light. This is especially “What does the summer of ’93 teach us about our true when it comes to the Catholic Church. present circumstances in 2018?” the cardinal asked.
In planning for nearly two years, pastors from each “The Holy Spirit was sent out in a special mission to parish of the archdiocese selected parishioners and our Church in 1993. The power of that sending was unexpected and disorienting to me as archbishop and to most others.”
But despite urban violence, threats of boycotts, organized protests and other issues prior to World Youth Day 1993, “a fundamental change took place in the Church of Denver,” said Cardinal Stafford, “but not only here — among the young people who came throughout the world, [and] even the Holy Father.
“Above all, our Church was transformed,” he said.
Cardinal Stafford said that to evangelize those who don’t know the Gospel, we first need “…a deep awareness of the delight of the Father taking in each of us as baptized men and women,” he said.
“I would urge you to think deeply and to pray deeply Over 5,000 gathered on August 11 for the More Than You about realizing how delighted God is in you — each of you Realize conference, which celebrated the last 25 years — because you are received by the Father as being [part since World Youth Day in Denver and looked to the next of] the body of his Son, who is beloved.” 25 years (photo by Jason Weinrich) 14 More Informed Discipleship Initiatives at STM
Our parish has been focusing on fostering, promoting and developing discipleship in our community. Recent efforts have included a Leadership Summit in January, many parishioners’ attendance at the archdiocesan More Than You Realize conference and a follow-up meeting on September 15 at STM.
Eighty-eight parishioners of STM attended the More Than You Realize conference! These parishioners were greatly inspired by this amazing experience.
All of us as baptized Catholics have an important role in the mission of discipleship. Fr. Randy Dollins Archbishop Aquila celebrates the commissioning Mass describes four pillars of discipleship on which you that closed out the conference (photo by Andrew Wright) might enjoy reflecting. These are: How do we receive others? How do we free up our time to disciple? How do we form others? How do we go out right now? “Jesus is much more than you realize”
In his homily given in both English and Spanish, Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila also touched on what today, are the inheritors of this spiritual revolution, and World Youth Day 1993 means for us today. we must not be afraid to put out into the deep to let our nets down for a catch. “The world likes to tell us many things about ourselves,” he said, “and not many of them today are “Jesus is much more than you realize. The Church is more good or uplifting. Just look at the distorted image of than you realize. And your role in the plan of God is much beauty that is prevalent today, let alone the distortions more than you realize or [can] even imagine,” he said. of what it means to be a human person… “And so, I beg you as your shepherd today to open your “The devil is certainly having a field day in a world that hearts to Jesus and speak heart-to-heart with him who has abandoned God, and even in some members of the loves you most.” u Church who have a weak faith in Jesus,” he said. Advertisement Aaron Lambert, Moira Cullings and Vladimir Mauricio-Perez contributed to this report. Reprinted from Denver Catholic, But despite similar issues taking place in 1993, the pope “Past 25 years remembered, next 25 anticipated at More brought to Denver a message of hope. Than You Realize conference,” August 15, 2018. “When St. John Paul II spoke to the youth gathered for the prayer vigil on Saturday night at Cherry Creek State Park, he reminded them that God and a much bigger role for them to play in history,” said Archbishop Aquila.
That message is just as important today, within an archdiocese and Church that stand at a crossroads, the archbishop said.
“We have an opportunity to make a major impact for Jesus Christ, even as the surrounding culture is becoming less Christian.”
The pope opened the doors for those who attended to become greater disciples of Christ — not just directly after World Youth Day, but forever.
“St. John Paul II believed in retrospect that a revolution Cardinal J. Francis Stafford speaks during the More Than had taken place in Denver,” said the archbishop. “We, You Realize conference (photo by Jason Weinrich) October 2018 15 Prayer & Peaceful Involvement join the 40 days for life movement
By Margarita Nelson STM Parishioner & Respect Life Committee
What is 40 Days for Life?
This international campaign of prayer, fasting and peaceful community involvement to end abortion world-wide started in 2007.
Since then, 14,643 babies have been saved from abortion (that we know of) due to over 750,000 volunteers praying in 769 cities from 50 countries. In addition, 177 abortion workers quit the abortion business, and 96 abortion centers have closed.
Each spring and fall, our parishioners participate in a local 40 Days for Life the 40 days. Our parish has picked two days to pray campaign. outside Planned Parenthood: Wednesday, October 3 and Saturday, October 6 from 7:00am through 5:00pm. In addition, Monsignor Tom Fryar will offer Holy Mass When is 40 Days for Life? outside Planned Parenthood at 1:00pm on Wednesday, October 3. Wednesday, September 26 through Sunday, November 4. Sign up for a day of prayer and fasting during any of Why do we need to pray? Why do we need to pray and fast?
“By the grace of God, 40 Days for Life has achieved a stunning track record of life-saving results since 2007 and rapidly becoming a world-wide movement,” all through prayer and peaceful involvement.
Through prayer and fasting, we can combat evil (Matthew 17:21).
Where do we pray?
Outside of the Planned Parenthood abortion facility at 7155 E. 38th Avenue in Denver. This is
16 More Informed the second-largest abortion center in the United States – and sadly, that is right here in our hometown of Denver. For questions, to sign up for an day of prayer and fasting or to sign up for an hour of prayer at Planned What if I can’t go to the facility to pray? Parenthood, contact [email protected]. Carpooling inquiries are also welcome. All prayers are welcome! If you are not able to travel to Planned Parenthood, pick a day to pray and fast for an References (and helpful sites to visit for more info) – end to abortion or spend some time in the Adoration 40DaysforLife.com, abortionworker.com. Chapel at St. Thomas More. u
The Gospel of Life
This year, 2018, we are celebrating the 50th anniversary Our featured speakers this year include: of the papal encyclical Humanae Vitae (Of Human Life), written by Blessed Pope Paul VI in 1968. The encyclical Deacon Patrick Lappert, MD provides beautiful and clear teaching about God’s plan (Plastic Surgeon) for married love and the transmission of life. Topic: Transgender Surgeries and Christian Anthropology In honor of this special golden anniversary, this year’s 9:00am annual Gospel of Life Conference will be focused on “Prophecies and Consequences of Humanae Vitae.” The conference is named after St. Pope John Paul II’s Michaelann Martin 1995 encyclical Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life). (FOCUS, Fellowship of Catholic University Students) All are welcome to attend the Gospel of Life Topic: Hope and Help for Families with Conference, an exciting day-long educational event for Special Needs our entire Archdiocese of Denver! Mark your calendar 10:00am for Saturday, October 20. The event will be held here at our own St. Thomas More Catholic Parish. Marguerite Duane (Executive Director of FACTS) Our day begins with Holy Mass at 7:30am celebrated Topic: Responding to the Contraceptive by Bishop Jorge Rodríguez, Ph.D. Then, we will enjoy Crisis with Fertility Awareness-Based speakers throughout the day (see the information at Methods right) from 9:00am–3:00pm. A delicious lunch will be 11:00am served at 12:00pm by Mile High Catering. Coffee and pastries will be available at registration. Emily Stimpson Chapman (Catholic writer and author) This huge, annual event is sponsored by Catholic Topic: A Refreshing Update on Charities of Denver. Co-sponsors are ENDOW (Educating Humanae Vitae written for ENDOW on the Nature and Dignity Of Women), the Augustine 1:00pm Institute and FOCUS (Fellowship Of Catholic University Students). Michael Barber For early bird pricing of $50 per person, register online (Moral Theologian from the Augustine by Thursday, October 18. A student rate for high school Institute) & university students is available at $15. Walk-in Topic: Where Do We Go from Here? registration the morning of the event is welcome for 2:00pm $55 if registration has not already been capped (at 1,000 registrations), although lunch is not able to be provided for walk-in registrants.
Register online by Thursday, October 18 at For more info and to register online, visit the website GospelOfLifeCO.org. For questions, contact Lynn at GospelOfLifeCO.org. Registration is capped at 1,000 Grandon at [email protected]. u registrants and typically does fill, so don’t delay!
October 2018 17 Our New Marian Statue in memory of a beloved son
By James Hilger He was selected STM Parishioner and served as the annual tax Most parents fear the loss of a dearly loved child. Sadly, advisor for the when this dreaded event happened to our family, a Independent way was found to express our love for our son and yet Petroleum hopefully will provide a reminder to others where one Association of can find comfort and advocacy to the Almighty. America.
Our son Mike (Michael Brien Hilger) was captain and all- Desiring to remain state swimmer and an honors graduate at Cherry Creek in Denver, he High School. was an officer and Director One summer, he was the summer pool manager of a of Tax for the small swim club. A severe chlorine gas leak occurred, and business empires at great risk, he rushed through the fumes to close off the for two of the leak, necessitating a trip to the hospital for treatment for wealthiest (and his lungs. philanthropic) men in the U.S. Mike graduated from Notre Dame, aided through partial He served as the scholastic and athletic scholarships, although suffering president of the from asthma, earned four varsity letters and five team Colorado Association of Tax Executives. and pool records as a mid and long distance swimmer. Mike was a three-term president of the Notre Club of Taking the required national C.P.A. exam, he was told that Denver and also received the Award of the Year as an he had scored in the top one half of one percent in the outstanding alumnus. During his tenure, the Denver Club country, and accepted a position with the world’s leading was named the most Outstanding Notre Dame Club in accounting firm before Christmas of his senior year of the country. college.
PhotographyPhoto by Ianby Ian Lee Lee 18 More Informed Exhibit of Love and Mercy: explore the amazing life of St. Teresa of Calcutta
Our parish is honored to have been chosen to host a display on the life of St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. This exhibit is brought to us by St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta’s religious order, Missionaries of Charity.
Come see the big exhibit in McCallin Hall from Friday, October 19 through Sunday, October 21 and explore the life and ministry of this woman of God. Grow in love, experience God’s mercy in your life and ask her intercession for your prayer intentions.
Around eighty full-color panels of her life story will Mike was happily married to his Notre Dame college be displayed: from her birth and vocation story, sweetheart, Jennifer David Hilger, and the proud father of to her incredible lifelong works of love, and mercy their two sons, Andrew and Stephen. devoted to the heart of Jesus and serving the sick, poor, hungry, lonely and vulnerable. The exhibit is As an athlete, he would ride his bike from Copper appropriate for all ages. Mountain over Vail Pass to Vail and back during daily trips. As part of this exhibit, we will also have a first-class relic of St. Mother Teresa. All are invited to spend Two years before his death, he was eventually diagnosed u with sarcoidosis, a fatal auto-immune disease that had time in veneration and prayer near her relic. attacked his heart.
He never regained consciousness from a heart transplant. He died prematurely at the age of 55 in January 2016. His funeral at STM was very well attended, filling the church.
His memorial statue of Mary is that of Our Lady of Grace, which is also mounted of the top of the Golden Dome of Notre Dame. u
Editor’s Note: This lovely Marian statue is located in the Ten Commandments Plaza, out the northwest exit of the narthex.
This beautiful statue of Mary has already become a favorite stopping point for children and adults as well, saying a short prayer, making a small request or leaving a floral bouquet in thanksgiving.
The photographs on these two pages are from our special blessing of this new statue of Our Lady, held on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15 following the 9:00am Mass. October 2018 19 A Tremendous Blessing celebrating 25 years of perpetual adoration
A powerful, lovely atmosphere of prayer filled the air as the parishioners of St. Thomas More Catholic Parish celebrated our milestone 25th anniversary of perpetual Eucharistic adoration in August. The past 25 years of perpetual adoration in our Oratory of the Blessed Sacrament has been a tremendous blessing for our parish, for the hundreds of adorers and for the recipients of the many graces from the abundant prayers.
Parishioners enjoyed a celebration on Tuesday, August 14 to honor this momentous occasion. A special half-hour of adoration followed the 6:00pm Anticipatory Mass for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A catered reception proceeded afterwards in McCallin Hall.
Our Adoration Chapel at St. Thomas More was dedicated by Cardinal Lustiger on Saturday, August 14, 1993, during World Youth Day, held here in Denver. Our chapel is open 24 hours a day, every day: 168 hours per week – for 25 years, that equals 218,400 hours. Almost every one of those 218,400 hours had at least one adorer, if not more, resting there in the peaceful presence of Our Lord.
If you are interested in joining this special ministry here at STM, please contact Rosemary Samaniego at adoration@ stthomasmore.org or 303.220.3392. Rosemary will help you select the hour best suited for you.
Think of adoration as setting aside time to visit your very best friend, just stopping by to say hello, taking the time to listen to Him and to let Him know how you are doing, saying thank you for all the gifts He has given you and letting Him know how much you love Him. u
Photography by Ian Lee
20 More Informed Fun & Festive Mane Event evening of fellowship & support for Catholic education
The Mane Event is a fun and festive evening out for all students with an excellent example of faithful stewardship members of our St. Thomas More Catholic School & Parish of treasure and an opportunity to take part in it. community! With the name derived from our school mascot, the STM Lions, the Mane Event is the school’s In addition to the big night out for adults, other activities primary fundraising event. The evening includes a live and that are part of the Mane Event lineup include a pep rally silent auction, raffles, gifts, entertainment and more! for students, the calendar raffle with tickets available before and after Masses on two weekends, and “Mane The fun theme for 2018 will be “Where The Wild Event Minute,” in which the winning class earns an ice Things Are,” fitting nicely with the venue of The Wildlife cream party! Students raise thousands of dollars each Experience. This year’s exciting Mane Event will be on year by bringing in spare change from around the house Saturday, October 27. Save the date! or by hosting neighborhood lemonade stands. Another way the students get involved is by creating unique Proceeds from the Mane Event are used to fund important artwork and mementos for the auction. programs and much-needed equipment that will directly benefit the students of STM Catholic, enhancing learning A team of parents, along with countless additional opportunities for the students. In past years, specific volunteers and school personnel, give generously of their purchases from Mane Event proceeds have included time and talent to help ensure a successful event. a new Lego Robotics lab, Mimeo boards, Promethean boards, mobile Mac carts, mobile iPad carts (with 25 iPads We are so grateful to all who have attended and on a cart), baseball field improvements, textbooks, sound supported the Mane Event over the years, making the equipment for the gym and stage area and security system wonderful things that happen at our school every day improvements such as bollards by the entrance, cameras possible. and monitors. Whether you are a parishioner, a parent, a relative The school also tithes 10% of the Mane Event proceeds to and/or a friend of our parish school or preschool, please the church. Children choose charities to receive donations consider joining us for a joyous evening in support of from the Children’s Charity Account. This provides Catholic education. We hope to see you there!u
You’re Invited to the Mane Event! Come support our parish school, STM Catholic
Saturday, October 27: At The Wildlife Experience / CU South Denver (10035 S. Peoria Street, Lone Tree 80134)
With an exciting theme of “Where The Wild Things Are,” the fun evening includes dinner, silent & live auctions and other festivities. All parishioners are welcome!
Buy your tickets today online at https://e.givesmart.com/events/7Uh/ Watch upcoming bulletins and our school website at stmcatholic.org for details.
“They made Him king.”
October 2018 21 stm catholic school
The Lion’s Roar
Connecting Faith & Science
The students at our parish school really enjoy learning all about God’s creation through exciting science lessons!
First Grade Science Experiment
First grade students wanted to find out what would happen if they mixed Pop Rocks candy with soda. We poured a package of Pop Rocks into a balloon and stretched it over the mouth of a 20 oz. soda bottle. We lifted the balloon to empty the pop rocks into the soda and waited for 5 minutes.
What caused the balloon to inflate? The soda and Pop Rocks both have pressurized carbon dioxide gas so when the Pop Rocks came in contact with the soda they popped which caused the carbon dioxide to escape into the soda. All the carbon dioxide needed to escape, but since there was a balloon over the soda opening, it could only go inside the balloon, causing it to blow up!
Watching God’s Love Overflowing
Kindergarten used a science experiment to learn how God’s love grows when we are kind, caring, helpful, and share. When God’s love is in our school and classroom, it “bubbles” over and “grows” to an overflowing amount!
First, we used different sizes of graduated cylinders to show how schools are different sizes and have different numbers of students. Then we added students to the schools (strong hydrogen peroxide liquid). We added the supplies students need to learn that we have been learning about in our Reading curriculum (Dawn dish soap). Students in our schools have different hair color, skin color, eye color, etc. so we had eyedroppers of color (food coloring) added to our school students. Then we used a different cup to put our student qualities of kindness, helpfulness, sharing, and caring (yeast). 22 More Informed When God’s love is added to that cup (warm water), it experiment challenged each student to solve problems grows (as the yeast and water react and grow). Finally, and make mistakes. The winner, a group of four from when we add our loving qualities combined with God’s eighth grade, stretched their slime more than twenty feet! love to our school community, it grows in such abundance, This tradition is a great way to start the year in science. it overflows! Adding the yeast mixture – God’s love mixed with our kindness, caring, helpfulness, sharing to our school community created an abundance of God’s love that overflowed, and the students were amazed. We are going to make this an amazing year filled with God’s love!
Thank you, STM families, for allowing us to work with your children to make this an amazing year filled with God’s abundant, overflowing love!
Fifth Grade Biologists
Fifth grade students are well on their way to becoming our new generation of biologists! They have been working hard on their in-depth study of plant and animal cells. Students have also been able to study and manipulate plastic models of cells provided by Fund-A-Need from Slime Time! last year’s Mane Event. Working in collaborative groups, students were to produce their own models of the cells The seventh and eighth graders participated in the first using materials such as toothpaste, pipe cleaners, Easter annual Slime Challenge. With just four ingredients, eggs, golf balls and Nerds candies! They wrapped up their students worked all class period to see which proportions cell unit by developing a presentation on Google Suite and of the water, borax solution, glue and food coloring presenting it to the class. u made slime that stretched further than the others. This
October 2018 23 middle school & high school youth
The Spark
Growing Closer to Christ & Each Other
By Hannah Smith Although we saw incredible things, perhaps what High School Youth Minister was the most incredible and beautiful part of the trip was growing in our relationships with Christ and each STM High School Youth Ministry had a unique opportunity other. to visit the Disneyland of the Midwest (Mount Rushmore), America’s beautiful dairyland and home of the We visited a number of holy sites, including the Shrine cheeseheads (Wisconsin), the home of the 2016 World of Our Lady of Good Help, the only Catholic Church- Series Champions (Chicago), and the Cornhusker State approved Marian apparition site in the United States. (Nebraska). There was an astounding sense of peace at the humble shrine in Champion, Wisconsin because we knew that We loaded up the church bus and drove over 2,000 miles our Blessed Mother had truly appeared there and we to end our busy summer with a bang. Throughout the nine were all under her loving protection. It was such a gift days that we were on the road, we did a number of fun for the adults to see the students resting in the peace activities and saw many amazing and beautiful sights. and presence of our Lord and His Blessed Mother.
24 More Informed This road trip allowed both the kids and the adults to experience the beauty in the simplicity of God’s creation in the Midwest, the beauty and joy that comes with authentic friendship with each other, and the immense love that God has for us that is shown in the creation around us – both in nature and in the people He places in our lives.
Though we were all exhausted from the trip, we came home with sore abs from all the laughing we did, lost voices from screaming songs in the bus along the way, and hearts full of joy and gratitude for the Lord and the opportunity that He provided us with this trip. u
Although we saw incredible things, perhaps what was the most incredible and beautiful part of the trip was growing in our “relationships with Christ and each other. October 2018 25 Faith, Service, Friendship middle school fall mission trip
By Molly Grantz at the same time. Then, we hung out all together and Seventh grader at West Middle School played some card games and talked. Next, we went over to Grand Lake and took a hike up to a beautiful waterfall My name is Molly Grantz, and I am 13 years old. I and took some awesome photos. Along the hike, we attended the 2018 Winter Park Mission Trip. At first I saw a baby deer and its mother, which were so cool! We didn’t want to go because none of my friends were able traveled our way over to a restaurant with Father Michael to go, so I was all alone. And secondly, it was a long trip. (the pastor in Winter Park) and ate some delicious food. The morning of the trip, I woke up dreading to get out We talked and played games, with eating peanuts and of my bed. I got all packed up and made my way to St. throwing them on the floor. Thomas More. The thing that lightened me up was when we went to church before I left. It made me feel more That was when I made some friends and realized that I comfortable and excited to go and learn more about my was enjoying every second instead of worrying and being faith. nervous. As the day ended, we went up to a house where the girls were staying. It took us a while before we got Soon after church, we loaded up the bus and got there, but once we did, it was time for bed! seated. Everyone else was chatting but me. Then one of our adult leaders, Emily, sat next to me, and she and The next couple of days, we volunteered at a sports I chatted nonstop. We talked about our summer and camp. I chose cheerleading with one of my high school school and our favorite activities. After a couple hours, mentor friends, Chloe. The little girls who attended the we came to a church called Our Lady of the Snow. We camp were happy and excited to come and learn more ate our lunch and then went to work helping volunteer. about their faith while learning about a new sport. The sports camp was one of my favorite parts of the trip I painted a handicap stop and was really happy knowing because of how awesome it was helping out little kids that I was helping out a church and getting to have fun and helping them succeed!
26 More Informed Once it came to our last night, we ate a wonderful dinner Then, morning came and we packed up and hit the road! and talked up a storm. We then took a beautiful walk up We drove through the night, came to St. Thomas More to a private praying area where we all prayed the Rosary church and spent the night there in the Catacombs. together. Overall, I enjoyed this trip so much! I was able to meet new people and learn so much about the church and how much it meant to me. The mentors were kind and funny, which made the trip so much for fun! I was an so glad I went on this mission trip and hope you can too! u
Each July for the last five years, our middle school youth ministry helps lead a Bible Sports Camp up in Winter Park Colorado for kids in kindergarten though fifth grade. The sports offered at the camp are basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, martial arts and cheerleading. Our group from STM this year were a mix of 16 youth in seventh & eighth grade, two high school mentors and four adults. One of the youth who attended for the first time, Molly Grantz, a seventh grader at West Middle School, wanted to share her mission trip testimony in the preceding article.
– Greg Johnson, Middle School Youth Minister
Get to Know Our New Youth Minister
What made you St. Thomas More Youth Ministry recently welcomed drawn to becoming Chloe Elder as the new middle school youth minister. a youth minister? She is enthusiastic, dedicated and a wonderful addition to our staff. To learn a little bit more about Chloe, THE YOUTH. I see such enjoy reading this fun Q & A interview with her! a light and hope in the youth unmatched by adults, especially in Where did you grow up? Do you have any middle schoolers. The siblings? Where did you attend high school and most beautiful part of college? being a youth minister is seeing the gifts that I was born in Grand Junction, lived in the mountains, God has given to each and then moved to Highlands Ranch. I have two younger person and they begin sisters, Spencer and Ryann. I went to ThunderRidge High to manifest themselves School and then the University of Mary in Bismarck, at this age. I love getting North Dakota. Bleed Blue!!! to know each student and showing them how What made you drawn to studying theology? important they are. I felt like I was missing a youth minister who did that when I was growing up, so I feel especially The more I learned in Confirmation, the more I wanted called to make sure the youth know they are designed for to know. I had a growing desire to know and defend the a specific purpose and that they are SO LOVED. truth after being forced to question my own faith starting out at a secular university. Every class I took deepened my What are you most excited for in working with faith and my love for Christ and His Church as I learned middle schoolers? about the sacraments, philosophy, the Trinity and the historical integrity of our Catholic faith. The laughs and the joy. u October 2018 27 “We share our time, talent & treasure a way of life to bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ, so that others may come to follow Him as well.”
– Tracy Earl Welliver, Everyday Stewardship Inspiration
Bigstock photo 216119128
STEWARDSHIP Prayer w Time & Talent w Faith w Treasure w Vocations w Earth
28 More Informed